Essential Steps to Change the Presser Foot on a Brother Sewing Machine
Knowing how to change the presser foot on a Brother sewing machine is a valuable skill for a sewist. The presser foot is probably the single most used accessory that is attached to the machine, and it holds the fabric down, allowing for more even stitching. The presser foot can only be changed after the upper thread is disengaged and the sewing machine is in a neutral state.
First up is to unplug the machine from the power source and remove the presser foot holder while the machine is still off. Most Brother machines have a bracket that is easily removed by pushing the foot lever up, twisting the presser foot holder and lifting it off. To ensure that the presser foot can be attached properly, it is best to check the lever on the foot holder, which needs to be flat and tight.
Once the presser foot holder is off and level, the next step is to attach the new presser foot. Many Brother sewing machines have a built-in presser foot compartment that holds a variety of presser feet. To interchange the feet, the selector wheel located above the needle should be turned until the desired presser foot is showing and can be attached. If a presser foot that is not part of the existing collection is desired, then the presser foot will need to be slid underneath the presser foot holder, making sure that one side of the presser foot fits into the groove on the top of the presser foot holder and the other side aligns with the slot next to the needle.
The final step is to adjust the height of the presser foot. This is done by turning the wheel located on the side of the machine until the foot is at the right height. To ensure that the fabric can move underneath the presser foot without being pulled, the wheel should be adjusted until it is as close as possible while still allowing the fabric to move freely. After the foot is adjusted, the presser foot should be tested on scrap fabric to make sure that the stitching is even.
Additional Considerations
It is important to remember that the presser foot should be changed regularly to ensure that the stitching is even and that the machine is working correctly. If a machine has not been used for a long period of time, it is best to change the foot in order to prevent any damage to the fabric. Additionally, the presser foot should be inspected to make sure that it is free from any dirt or lint.
In addition to changing the presser foot when needed, sewists are also encouraged to clean their machines regularly. This involves emptying the bobbin case, cleaning the thread guides and cutting away any excess thread. For optimal functionality, it is suggested to lubricate the sewing machine every four to six months.
Common Problems
One of the most common issues experienced when changing the presser foot is when the lever that holds the presser foot in place is not tight enough. If this happens, the fabric will not feed properly and the stitching will not be even. To fix this issue, the lever needs to be pushed down firmly and tightened. If the issue persists, the presser foot may need to be changed as well.
Another common issue is when the needle does not penetrate the fabric when the presser foot is in place. If this occurs, there may be something preventing the needle from entering the fabric, such as a piece of lint or a thread that has become tangled. This can be easily remedied by checking the area around the needle to see if there is anything blocking it and removing it if necessary.
Tips for Best Results
When changing the presser foot on a Brother sewing machine, it is important to remember that proper installation is essential. Therefore, it is best to consult the manual to make sure that the foot is installed correctly and that it is the right type for the machine. This will ensure that the machine is working optimally and that the stitching is even.
It is also important to remember to turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source. Working with a live machine can be dangerous, and it is best to err on the side of caution. Additionally, it is important to check that the presser foot holder is secure and tight, as this will ensure that the presser foot stays in place.
Types of Presser Feet
When choosing a presser foot for a Brother sewing machine, there are a variety of options available. The most commonly used are zipper feet, buttonhole feet, and blind hem feet. Zipper feet are used to attach zippers to garments, and they come in several different styles. Buttonhole feet, as their name suggests, are used to create buttonholes. Lastly, blind hem feet are used to create a blind seam, which is a type of hem that is nearly invisible.
It is important to remember that the type of presser foot that is best suited to a project depends largely on the fabric. For thicker fabrics, such as denim or upholstery, a heavier-duty presser foot may be needed. On the other hand, for delicate fabrics like silk, a lightweight presser foot may be more appropriate. Sewists are encouraged to experiment with different presser feet and fabrics to get a sense of what works best for them.
The Benefits of Using the Right Presser Foot
Using the right presser foot for a project can make a world of difference. Not only will the stitching be even, but it will also be more secure and durable. In addition, having the correct presser foot means that the sewing machine will be less likely to skip stitches or jam. Therefore, it is wise to take the time to research and select the appropriate presser foot for any project.
It is also important to keep in mind that some presser feet are more difficult to install than others. For instance, pockets, intricate appliqués or quilting designs may require a specially designed presser foot. In these cases, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable sewist or a professional repair person to ensure that the foot is installed correctly.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing how to change the presser foot on a Brother sewing machine is an important skill for sewists to have. While it may seem intimidating at first, it can be done easily and safely once the correct steps are followed. With the correct presser foot, sewing projects can be completed quickly and easily, with excellent results.
